🏡 Q: What’s the best way to buy a home in San Francisco with 10% down?
Buying a home in San Francisco with less than 20% down is absolutely possible—and more common than you might think.
As a Bay Area real estate agent, I work with buyers all the time who are putting down 10%, 5%, or even less. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or just getting back into the market, here’s how to make it work—and why it’s still a competitive way to buy, even in San Francisco.
đź’° First: Know Your Financing Options
Not all lenders treat 10% the same. Here’s what I help my clients explore:
- Conventional Loans with PMI: These allow 10% down with monthly mortgage insurance (PMI). Some lenders offer low-cost PMI or even lender-paid options.
- DK-DALP and other local programs: San Francisco has unique down payment assistance programs, especially for first-time buyers.
- Bank Portfolio Loans: Some local banks offer relationship-based loans that are more flexible than traditional guidelines.
If you’re shopping with 10% down, we’ll want to make sure your pre-approval is rock-solid and that your lender can move fast when the right home pops up.
🎯 Strategy Matters More Than the Down Payment
While 20% down can feel like the “gold standard,” your overall offer strategy matters just as much—sometimes more. In fact, I’ve helped clients win with 10% down even when competing with higher-down buyers.
Here’s how:
- Clear communication with the listing agent
- Fast and responsive timelines (inspection, appraisal, etc.)
- Flexibility where it counts (e.g. rent-backs or close-of-escrow)
- A great agent-to-agent rapport (seriously—it makes a difference!)
đź“Ť The Right Property Is Key
Not every home will be a good fit for a 10% down buyer—especially those that are fixer-uppers, unique properties, or TICs. But plenty of move-in-ready condos and single-family homes are.
I help my clients narrow in on the properties that:
- Are likely to appraise at value
- Have less risk for financing hiccups
- May have motivated sellers or longer days on market
👋 Let’s Build a Game Plan
If you’re dreaming of owning in SF but aren’t sure if 10% is enough, let’s talk. The market changes fast, and with the right strategy and prep, you can compete confidently—even in a city like San Francisco.
đź“© Send me a message biancakofmanrealtor@gmail.com
